Do You Wear Sunscreen?

Let me hold your hands when I ask this - Do you wear sunscreen?

I wear a brand made by my dermatologist. (The white cast you may see in the video fades after a few minutes.) I started to consistently wear sunscreen about 4-5 years ago, and my skin noticeably changed for the better (it is much smoother).

However, some people don’t wear it due to several misconceptions. Here are some of the most prevalent ones:

1. "I don't need sunscreen on cloudy days."

Some people believe that UV rays are only a concern on sunny days. However, up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate clouds, meaning you can still be exposed to harmful rays even when the sun isn't shining.

2.”Black people don’t need sunscreen.”

Yes, we do. People with darker skin tones may be less likely to burn, but we are still susceptible to skin cancer and other sun-related problems, such as premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and wrinkles. 

3. "Sunscreen is only necessary in summer."

UV rays can cause skin damage year-round, not just in summer. It's essential to wear sunscreen every day, regardless of the season, especially if you spend time outdoors.

4. "I only need to apply sunscreen once a day."

Sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours, or more often if you are swimming or sweating. Many people underestimate how quickly sunscreen can wear off, so regular reapplication is crucial for effective protection.

5. "Sunscreen is only for the beach or pool."

Many people associate sunscreen with swimming or sunbathing, but it's important to wear it during everyday activities as well, such as walking, driving, or working outside, as UV exposure can occur in many situations.

6. "Higher SPF means I can stay in the sun longer."

While higher SPF offers more protection, it doesn't mean you can stay in the sun indefinitely. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks about 98%. The difference in protection is minimal, and reapplication is still necessary.

7. "I don’t need sunscreen if my makeup has SPF in it."

While some makeup products contain SPF, they often don't provide enough coverage for adequate sun protection. It's best to apply a dedicated sunscreen underneath makeup for effective protection.

8. "Sunscreen can cause vitamin D deficiency."

While sunscreen does block some UV rays, it doesn't completely prevent vitamin D synthesis in the skin. You can still get adequate vitamin D through limited sun exposure or dietary sources without putting your skin at risk.

Be sure to slather on your favorite sunscreen for healthier skin and reduced risk of skin cancer. #sunscreen #skincare #glowingskin #clt